Question 23 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Correct Answer):** Option D, "if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change," is the definition of when risk of collision shall be deemed to exist, as explicitly stated in Rule 7(a)(i) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) (which governs both International and Inland waters for this rule). A steady bearing (constant compass direction) combined with decreasing range (getting closer) indicates that the vessels are likely on a collision course. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel:** While crossing ahead requires caution and assessment, this action alone does not automatically constitute a deemed risk of collision under Rule 7. The bearing change is the determining factor. * **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** Overtaking situations are defined under Rule 13, but the vessel being overtaken must still assess the risk. An overtaking situation does not *automatically* mean the risk is deemed to exist; the vessel ahead may be sufficiently clear, and the bearing might be changing rapidly. Risk is deemed to exist when the bearing is steady. * **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions (head-on situation, Rule 14) are generally required to take action to avoid collision. However, if the vessels are approaching but offset (e.g., they will pass well clear starboard-to-starboard), the bearing will be changing rapidly, and risk of collision is **not** deemed to exist under Rule 7's primary criterion.